Automotive
Subaru made a bold move in 2014 when it unveiled the WRX STI as a four-door sedan, marking a significant departure from the previous Impreza WRX STI lineup. The decision to drop the Impreza nameplate, separating the high-performance WRX and WRX STI from the family-friendly Impreza, allowed Subaru to focus on creating cars for specific market segments. The WRX STI became a true performance machine, holding its ground as one of the best street versions of a rally car available to enthusiasts.
Performance Excellence of the WRX STI
With an impressive pedigree of six World Rally Championship titles and 122 podium finishes out of 193 races, the Impreza WRX STI was already a well-respected name in motorsport. The 2014 launch marked a new era for the WRX STI, one that would appeal to both serious rally fans and those looking for a no-compromise performance car. Subaru introduced the WRX STI at the 2014 North American International Motor Show, focusing on the true essence of performance, sportiness, and everyday usability. Despite its four-door sedan design, the STI was built for business.
Fast forward to 2018, and Subaru introduced the WRX STI S209, a limited edition with 209 units. It was Subaru's most powerful, best-handling STI road car, designed to capture the highest level of performance Subaru had to offer. With a combination of innovative engineering, precise handling, and unmatched agility, the S209 sold out quickly, demonstrating the car’s appeal to both enthusiasts and collectors.
Design and Features of the WRX STI
The WRX STI was designed to showcase its performance capabilities without hiding behind a subtle exterior. From the front, the car displayed an aggressive upper hexagonal grille, adorned with red STI lettering. A broad trapezoidal air intake was positioned lower on the bumper to feed the intercooler with fresh air, flanked by large side scoops with integrated fog lamps. The raptor-like headlights with LED low beams added to the menacing look of the car, while the aluminum hood with a functional scoop provided both aesthetics and performance benefits.
The interior of the WRX STI echoed its performance ethos. The driver sat behind a mixed instrument panel, with large dials for the speedometer and rev counter, flanking a TFT display showing real-time data. The center stack housed an 11.6-inch multimedia screen, making the cabin both modern and functional. Sports-focused, the car featured Recaro sports seats on the top trim and high-bolstered seats with a combination of fabric and leather for the lower trims. The back bench could comfortably seat up to three passengers with a 60/40 split-folding design.
The WRX STI’s Evolution in 2022
In 2021, Subaru introduced the second generation of the WRX, which debuted for the 2022 model year. Subaru continued to refine the formula that made the WRX an icon, keeping the focus on performance, handling, and everyday usability. The 2022 WRX was faster and more efficient than previous versions, with Subaru’s iconic symmetrical all-wheel drive system maintaining its reputation for excellent handling, whether on the track or the street.
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